UMBC - Career Path

Introduction

The Department of Africana Studies provides an undergraduate education that draws from the intellectual heritage, accumulated knowledge, enduring experiences and contributions of Africa and its diaspora. Through multi- and interdisciplinary methodologies, students acquire knowledge in ways that help them build their analytical and critical thinking skills. Students are helped to use their knowledge and experiences to prepare for graduate study in a variety of fields and for rewarding careers that will enhance the quality of their lives and contribute to the development of their communities.

Students may pursue the standard major in Africana studies or a concentration in a track. Many students find it productive to combine Africana studies with another discipline in a dual major. Students also may minor in Africana studies. Students who select the major or double-major in Africana studies have the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge through internships or field research.

Year-by-Year Plan

Freshman Year:

Identify and clarify your interests, abilities, and values. Meet with a CSC Career Specialist to establish goals.
- Discuss requirements, prospective majors, and registration plans with an academic advisor.
Use the Focus career assessment program available on the CSC website.
- Become familiar with the library and it’s resources.
Clarify your interests and skills through classes, student organizations, community service and internships.
- Complete prerequisites and co requisites for courses in your major.
Identify potential majors that relate to your interests and abilities; discuss them with a Career Specialist.
Take advantage of Career Services workshops and events such as career fairs.
- Plan now to participate in a study abroad program as a junior or senior.
Establish relationships with faculty members, Career Specialists, and administrators who will assist you.
Establish a UMBCworks computer account.

Sophomore Year:

Narrow down your choices for a major.
- Declare or apply for progression to a particular major (if you are ready).
Attend Career Services major-related programs and fairs.
Obtain relevant work experience through an internship, part-time job, summer job or by volunteering.
- Establish relationships with professors in your major to gain insight into the department, course offerings, research opportunities or independent study projects.
Begin to identify what values are important to you in a job and career.
Develop some short-term and long-term educational goals by meeting with a Career Specialist.
Attend Career Workshops.

Junior Year:

Relate your values, interests, and abilities to possible career choices.
Develop your career goals by meeting with a CSC Career Specialist.
Thoroughly research the occupations, which you are considering.
- Plan the remainder of your curriculum with an academic advisor.
Use the Career Resource Center (MP212).
- Complete graduation application in the Office of the Registrar.
Attend Career Workshops/programs and check out the on-line career seminars.
Interview people in occupational areas that interest you about the nature of their jobs.
- Engage in or start planning appropriate research and independent study projects.
Continue to increase your abilities through meaningful extracurricular activities, internships, co-ops, work, and volunteer experiences.
Begin to research programs and entrance requirements if graduate school is in your future.
Explore the Graduate School Resource website.
Attend the Graduate School seminar and related programs.
If you are headed to graduate school, begin to draft your statement of purpose and prepare for required exams.
Seek a summer position that will give you direct experience in a field you wish to pursue after graduation.
- Prepare for graduate level standardized test such as the GRE, LSAT, and MCAT.
Attend job fairs.
Develop relationships with faculty and professionals.
Consult with your advisor to ensure you are on track for graduation.

Senior Year:

During late summer or early in the fall, check out the on-line on-campus interviewing seminar.
Participate in on-campus interviews, attend Information Sessions, and Corporate Visibility Days.
Sharpen your job-search skills early in the fall through the Career Services Center’s workshops/programs such as resume critiques, the mock interview program, and attending major-related career panels.
- Take graduate level standardized tests such as the GRE, LSAT and MCAT.
Have your resume critiqued by a CSC Career Specialist.
Utilize your on-line UMBCworks account.
- Finalize graduation plan with academic advisor.
Take advantage of on-campus and off-campus interviewing programs.
Network with professionals and alumni in your field about your job search techniques and opportunities.
Research companies of interest to you; utilize Vault (on-line career library).
Write letters of inquiry, visit employers, send follow-up letters and make phone calls.
If your interest is so directed, apply to graduate schools and take all required entrance exams.
Ask for letters of recommendation; check out Interfolio.com, an on-line credentialing service.
Contact graduate schools about visits.
Apply early for financial assistance.
Be sure you have fulfilled all requirements for graduation.
Attend career fairs to make contact with employers and to learn more about various career fields.
Use the Internet in your job search.
Continue to meet with a CSC Career Specialist on a regular basis.
Focus on the position you want, and go for it!
Share your post-graduation plans with CSC by completing the UMBC Graduation Report (available at www.careers.umbc.edu).

Career Boosters

Freshman Year:

Sophomore Year:

Junior Year:

Senior Year:

Curriculum

For official curriculum for this major, please visit the online undergraduate catalog. This site is your one-stop location for academic policies, major requirements, academic support services, and the first year experience.

Africana Studies

Introduction

Year-by-Year Plan

Freshman Year:

Sophomore Year:

Junior Year:

Senior Year:

Career Boosters

Freshman Year:

Sophomore Year:

Junior Year:

Senior Year:

Curriculum

Other links you may find of use:

Sample fields in Africana Studies